Dubai plans to change its green building ratings system in early 2018, according to the UAE state news agency WAM.

Dubai Municipality’s Buildings Department issued Circular No. 222 regarding the new rating system – known as “Al Saafat”, or palm frond – and its implementation phase by the beginning of next year, it was reported.

The Al Saafat project aims to bring a 20 percent reduction in electricity consumption, 15 percent in water consumption, 20 percent carbon dioxide emissions and 50 percent waste reduction.

The initiative is designed to achieve the high performance of buildings to promote human and environmental health by strengthening the planning, design, implementation, and operation phases of buildings.

“In line with the vision of Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the municipality continues to move towards achieving its goals of being the world’s first sustainable city. Hence, it has launched several projects and initiatives, the latest being the green building rating system, Al Saafat,” said Layali Al Mulla, Director of Buildings Department.

As per Circular No. 222, the green building rating is split into four major classifications: platinum, gold, silver and bronze, in descending order, and every building must adhere to the minimum bronze category requirements.